Explorer

I have a Helly Hansen shell that I bought a few years ago, and I've been really happy with it. Easy to put on, comfortable, waterproof, but still breathes right. Can fit a decent amount of clothing underneath it if I want to layer up. There are similar options from pretty much all big outdoor-clothing brands.

I bought the marmot minimalist two years ago and love it for the hiking I do here in the SW. For me it was a great step up from my older marmot precip ( which also served my purpose). I don't usually have the rain issues of people in the NW, so for me the decision was based on packabikity, ventilation, and also price. I bought my minimalist jacket with a 40% of coupon.

Expedition Leader

I have a Helly Hansen shell that I bought a few years ago, and I've been really happy with it. Easy to put on, comfortable, waterproof, but still breathes right. Can fit a decent amount of clothing underneath it if I want to layer up. There are similar options from pretty much all big outdoor-clothing brands.

What he said look at sailing gear. Most sailors today use a top thats sort of a hybrid between a kayaker smock and shell. Gasket at the neck that can be left open or closed to prevent water down your back, same at the sleeves and waist. There are varying levels of sealing and cost, all are typically pull over not zippered. Very thin then you layer under them the good ones breath the cheap ones are one step above trash bag with holes for appendages

The hood on my HH shell is definitely on the short side. Not unbearably so, but an extra inch or two wouldn't hurt. We get tons of rain here, so I spend a lot of time getting wet (walking the dog) - like jgaz, I find that a baseball cap under the hood makes a world of difference.

Adventurer

I have always had superb results from Cabelas branded breathable gear.( I have short and long jackets as well as pants) fair price for very good quality. Strong zippers, excellent stitching good designs. It has been years since I have had to buy a shell jacket and I wear mine a LOT (almost daily) in the winter and of course when it rains at work (I am in construction), camping, dirt bike riding, leisure and hunting. Not sure what will happen in the future since Bass Pro has bought them out and IME Bass Pro QC is lacking.

Adventurer

I have always had superb results from Cabelas branded breathable gear.( I have short and long jackets as well as pants) fair price for very good quality. Strong zippers, excellent stitching good designs. It has been years since I have had to buy a shell jacket and I wear mine a LOT (almost daily) in the winter and of course when it rains at work (I am in construction), camping, dirt bike riding, leisure and hunting. Not sure what will happen in the future since Bass Pro has bought them out and IME Bass Pro QC is lacking.

Observer

Personally, I'd look at the RAB or Musto range, both are quality pieces of gear.

I do still own a Berghaus RG1 however for summer I primarily use my thin but very functional Rab jacket complete with roll away hood, complete with to chest napoleon pockets, can't remember the exact model.

Adventurer

Personally, I'd look at the RAB or Musto range, both are quality pieces of gear.

I do still own a Berghaus RG1 however for summer I primarily use my thin but very functional Rab jacket complete with roll away hood, complete with to chest napoleon pockets, can't remember the exact model.